Golden Ball connects Emporia State student-athletes with community

April 12, 2011

When they committed to compete for Emporia State University, student-athletes didn’t realize that dance lessons were in their future. But when they decided to reach out to their local supporters with a dance, lessons became necessary.

The fifth annual Golden Ball, a dance for those 55 and older, will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, April 14, in the Colonial Ballroom of ESU’s Memorial Union. This year’s dance will feature music from the 1950s and ’60s. ESU student-athletes participating in the ball learned dances from that era at Sherry’s Dance Workshop in Emporia.

“It’s really awesome just getting to know folks around the community who come to our games and support us,” said Kirsten Ford, president of Student Athlete Advisory Committee. “It’s a way to give back.”

Ford, a senior on the women’s tennis team, has attended the Golden Ball for three years.

"This event continues to grow each year,” said Carmen Leeds, associate director of athletics advisor for SAAC, which sponsors the event. “We are grateful to the community for their help in putting on a special evening for the seniors in the Lyon County area."

The event is free, and transportation is available from L-CAT. For those who choose to drive, the Lions Club is providing valet parking.